Collette & Impulsive Escape Travel
December 10th - 17th, 2024
Includes:
Essential Experiences
Experience the 600-year-old holiday tradition of the Christkindlesmarkt.
Experience the holiday spirit in Austria and Germany, where the tradition of the Christkindlesmarkt began over 600 years ago. Explore Christmas markets alive with festive cheer and cultural treasures. Uncover the history and tastes of these incredible regions spending five relaxing nights in Innsbruck, where the spirit of Christmas is undeniable. Venture to the Alpine village of Seefeld via train; partake in the traditional taste of schnapps before you’re whisked away on an actual horse-drawn Christmas sleigh. Head to Salzburg for an expert-guided walking tour and delight in dinner at the centuries-old St. Peter’s restaurant. Embark on the journey of a lifetime in this winter wonderland, where twinkling lights illuminate entire regions, and the spirit of Christmas is alive and well.
Your Tour Includes
Must-See Inclusions:
Cultural Experiences:
Culinary Inclusions:
Germany & Austria: Some of these pictures are from my last Christmas Market Tour in 2023
Day 1
You’re on your way to uncover the unique charms of Austria and Germany and the incredible Christkindlesmarkt (Christmas market)!
Day 2
Welcome to the town of Innsbruck, capital of the Alps. Spend the next five nights nestled in the heart of the mountains. Tonight, accompany your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner to celebrate your arrival in Austria.
Day 3
This morning, it’s your choice! Walk through the charming streets of Innsbruck on a locally guided tour and take in landmarks such as the Golden Roof -OR- visit the Museum of Tyrolean Regional Heritage, getting a glimpse into this historic region through traditional costumes and handicrafts. Next, journey by train 3,600 feet above sea level to the idyllic village of Seefeld, one of the world's great ski resorts thanks to miles of lakes and trails. Step off the train into the pure Alpine air to find an authentic horse-drawn carriage – and a traditional gift of schnapps – waiting for you. Belt out a carol or two as you are whisked across the snow and participate in an interactive demonstration of how to make (and eat!) traditional strudel. Glide your way back to Innsbruck.
Day 4
Over the mountains and through the woods of the Austrian countryside resides the storybook Old Town of Salzburg. Head over to Mirabell Gardens and the iconic “Do-Re-Mi steps” from The Sound of Music. Then, journey through the baroque heart of the Old City and the famous thoroughfare of Mozart’s birthplace. Head out to enjoy a free afternoon with the locals, affectionately known as “Salzburgers.” Do some treasure hunting at any of six Christmas markets. Your day concludes at St. Peter’s Skiftskeller, the oldest continuously-serving restaurant in Europe. Inside this centuries-old gem, indulge in a traditional dessert.
Day 5
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Innsbruck. Go treasure hunting at the Christmas markets, brimming with the sights, smells, and sounds of the season. Be on the lookout for St. Nicholas and even Krampus as they march through the market stalls. Revel in good cheer while brass bands play from the towers and indulge in some gluhwein and stollen, while chestnuts roast on open fires. Perhaps you’ll enjoy an optional Tyrolean dinner and folklore show this evening.
Day 6
View the magnificence of Neuschwanstein Castle as you enjoy a photo stop of the fairytale creation of Bavaria’s “Mad King.” Your journey continues to Oberammergau. Enjoy a lunch featuring regional cuisine before spending some time on your own getting to know this picture-perfect Bavarian village.
Day 7
Wilkommen to Munich! Venture to Marienplatz and see the iconic Glockenspiel,* where life-size figurines spin and dance. Enjoy free time to explore, perhaps grabbing a bier at the renowned Hofbrauhaus or doing some final holiday shopping at one of Europe’s largest Christmas markets. Join a local guide on a tour of Munich, passing by famous sights such as the Royal Square and Parliament Building. Close your day, toasting to the end of your seasonal sojourn at an early farewell dinner before you depart to your hotel near the Munich airport.
Day 8
You will take your included airport transfer from the hotel. Your tour comes to a close today but that just means it's time to plan your next escape!
FLIGHTS INCLUDED
EARLY BOOKING BONUS
FLIGHTS INCLUDED
DOUBLE
SINGLE
TRIPLE
Deposit: $689pp
Optional Excursion (Innsbruck):
Innsbruck - Day 5
Experience the Tyrolean culture of Austria during a traditional dinner and show in Innsbruck. In Tyrol, a region of Austria that dates back millennia, cultural heritage is held strong and passed from generation to generation. During a three-course dinner, taste culinary specialties of the region. Then, witness the rich musical traditional of mountainous Austria during a Tyrolean folklore show hosted by a locally well-known musical family. The lively show will take you back in time through music, dance, and excitement. Duration: Approximately 3 hours. Please note a minimum of 1 passengers is required. Transportation is included.
Optional Excursion: $70pp
Collette
Our industry-leading cancellation waiver offers travellers a full cash refund for the price of the tour, right up to the day prior to departure, minus the small cost of the waiver. Travel worry-free knowing if anything changes, you're protected.
Plus, you're covered on tour.
Our travel protection plan covers you on tour. If you have to stop your trip or return home early, need medical assistance or evacuation, suffer a baggage loss or delay; or are delayed on tour for 12 hours or more, you're covered.
Collette Travel Protection & Worry-Free Cancellation is $449 per person
Tips
Tipping is a great way to show your appreciation for the people who help keep your tour running smoothly. But it can be confusing who to tip, when to tip, and how much. For baggage handling and waitstaff gratuities for included meals, the tips are handled by us. For hotel housekeeping staff, local sightseeing guides, transfer drivers, motor coach drivers, and Tour Managers, gratuities are not included in the price of your tour.
CLICK "SECURE YOUR SPOT" BELOW
FLIGHTS INCLUDED: EARLY BOOKING BONUS
Occupancy
DOUBLE
SINGLE
TRIPLE
Payment Schedule
Customize Your Tour With Optional Excursion:
* Requests after 6/11/2024: Contact Cheryl for rates and availability
* Included in Price: Roundtrip Air from Sea-Tac Airport, Air Taxes and Fees/Surcharges, Hotel Transfers, Tours as outlined
* Not Included in Price: Optional Cancellation Waiver and Insurance of $449 per person or third-party travel insurance, if elected.
* All Rates are Per Person and are subject to change based on air inclusive package from SEA - other departure gateways available.
Don't need flights? Contact Cheryl for Tour Only Pricing
In November and December of 2023, I spent three weeks traveling around Europe visiting Charistmas Markets. I instantly fell in love and want to share that magic with everyone. You are in good hands!
Picture this: cobblestone streets adorned with twinkling lights, the scent of mulled wine in the air, and the joyous sounds of festive cheer. As your Christmas Market Maestro, I've immersed myself in the enchanting holiday spirit of Europe, exploring the most captivating markets across the continent.